The organisers of this year’s Otley Walking Festival are hopeful it will prove to be a record-breaker.

The nine-day event started last Saturday and this year includes themed walks on everything from bats to pubs.

Treasurer Stuart Fildes said the good weather had already drawn lots of people to the town to take part.

He said: “The festival is in full swing and early indications are that there will be record numbers participating.

“However, due to technical problems the Introduction to Leki Poles event had to be postponed and this will now take place at 2pm on Wednesday, July 15, at Lower Shawfield car park, on East Chevin Road.

“All those booked have been informed, and if anyone would like to join in this fun event please call the festival office on 01943 851166.”

There are still plenty more walks, of varying difficulties and lengths, scheduled to take place before the festival ends. Full details can be found by picking up a programme from Otley Civic Centre, Otley Courthouse, local libraries and Tourist Information Centres, or by visiting chevintrek.co.uk.

Two events will mark the end of the 2009 festival this weekend.

The Festival Frolic dance and finger buffet takes place from 7.30pm at Grove Hill Club on Saturday. Bookings are essential and can be made by calling 01943 465270.

On Sunday the Manor pub will host the grand finale and prize raffle at 3.30pm.